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March 11, 2006
Mobile, AL., Volunteers from over a dozen organizations
combed area waters for derelict crab traps today. Early estimates show
some 300 traps were recovered. Organizers were not sure what return they
would get on the volunteer's efforts due to strong winds from the south
east pushing water high onto shore and area marshes.
The Alabama Marine Resources Division and Mobile Bay National Estuary
Program (Mobile Bay NEP) host the event jointly. "We are really pleased
with the results especially given the southerly wind that prevented the
low tide we had expected," said Leslie Hartman, biologist with the Alabama
Marine Resources Division. The plan is to identify a Saturday with a low
morning tide which allows boaters better visibility of derelict traps.
Placing the program in March allows for warmer weather. Volunteers also
report seeing traps in key areas which helps to target recovery efforts.
Derelict traps are often lost due to broken lines and storms. Once lost,
they continue to catch crabs and other animals. Recreational as well as
commercial boaters and fisherman often catch the traps in their nets, on
lines, or in the props of their boats. The ghost traps can also tear up
emergent and submergent grasses causing habitat problems.
As with any debris program, a budget is needed to arrange for dumpsites
and various support personnel. "We are really pleased to have Holcim (US)
Inc. join our event this year. Their physical and financial contribution
allows us to purchase snacks and other items for volunteers that we might
not have otherwise," said Lee Yokel with the Mobile Bay NEP. The Mobile
Area Water and Sewer Service provided water and the Original Oyster House
provided coupons to the volunteers.
Participating groups included: Auburn University Marine Extension and
Research Center, Coastal Conservation Association, Mobile Sail and Power
Squadron, US Fish and Wildlife Service, The Coastal Conservation
Association, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Weeks Bay Reserve, Fairhope
Yacht Club, Southern Company Barry Steam Plant, Delta Air boats, Alabama
Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club, and
Wolf Bay Watch groups mobilizing most of the volunteers. Individuals also
walked the shoreline and helped dockside as boaters returned with traps.
"Without all of these people, we wouldn't have a program. We owe them a
big thank you for their time and efforts, " said Leslie Hartman.
For more information contact: Leslie Hartman, 463-5657, or Lee Yokel
802-4026.
Marine
Resources Division
251 861-2882 (Mobile County)
251
968-7576 (Baldwin County)
Mobile
Bay NEP
251 431-6409
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